'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Thursday 1 December 2016

Review: Squishy McFluff: Secret Santa

Oh how I love Squishy McFluff. I so want him as a pet, and I so wish I lived next door to Ava. She is just the coolest kid--high on imagination and shenanigans. The type of neighbour I would have loved as a kid (or maybe I was her??).

The fourth book in the series (of 6 so far), this early reader is another delight. Written in beautifully-constructed rhyme, we again go on a rollicking adventure with Ava and Squishy, her invisible cat (who, of course, is the cause of ALL that goes wrong).

It's Christmas Eve and Ava and Squishy have been busy. They've been to the Christmas Fair, have wrapped their presents (even the sofa!) and have penned their letters to Santa.

But what Christmas wish is high on Ava's list this year? And will it be granted? Will anyone else ever be able to actually see Squishy McFluff?

Pip Jones' fabulous storylines for this series are a sheer delight, and it's so glorious to see a series done in rhyme for the very young. New readers can either have a grown-up or older child read each tale, or can practice the words themselves, with rhythm and rhyme to help them along.

Ella Okstad's superb tri-colour illustrations continue to enchant, with her beautifully fluid line drawings and scrumptious (very Christmassy!) colour palette.

Another winner in the McFluff series!

Title: Squishy McFluff: Secret Santa
Author: Pip Jones
Illustrator: Ella Okstad
Publisher: Faber & Faber, $12.99
Publication Date: 1 December 2015
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780571302567
For ages: 4 - 7
Type: Junior Fiction